Monday, January 9, 2012

What is the progression of aortic stenosis in the elderly?

We have an elderly family member who was diagnosed with aortic stenosis in 2006. His heart was evaluated again last year and the measurement of the valve was around 1cm. Last year he began having fainting episodes and ended up in the hospital twice as a result of injuries from the fall. At that time he also told the doctors that he has been having chest pain. The doctor told us that due to his age (93) and his other health problems, he is not a candidate for any type of surgery. The last six months, he has gone downhill quite a bit. In addition, he has dementia which has progressed a lot. Since he began fainting, he moved into an isted living facility. He seems extremely weak and has trouble walking and even sitting up in bed. Lately, he has been having a lot of trouble swallowing as well. I'm just wondering if anyone else has had any experience with an elderly person who has had this and is not going to be treated with surgery. I've found a lot of information about the prognosis after surgery, but not too much if surgery is not performed. Overall, my family is just wondering what we should expect. Will he continue to go downhill quickly or will his decline level out? It's difficult to really ask him about his symptoms because of the dementia, he does not really understand what you are asking. Any help or personal experience will be appreciated! Thanks!

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